General Accountant

About Griffith Foods

Griffith Foods, established in 1919 and based in Alsip, Illinois, USA, is a family-owned company that partners creatively with food businesses to develop products that satisfy evolving consumer demands while promoting environmental sustainability. Their product range includes seasonings, marinades, coating systems, and sauces designed to be healthier for people and the planet.

Role Overview

As a General Ledger Accountant at Griffith Foods, you will ensure the accuracy and integrity of the company's financial records by managing general ledger processes. Your responsibilities span month-end and year-end close procedures, preparing and reviewing journal entries, conducting account reconciliations, and supporting audits by collaborating with multiple teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee general ledger accounting activities such as month-end/year-end closing and accounts payable transactions.
• Prepare and validate journal entries to ensure they meet accounting standards and accuracy criteria.
• Work closely with various internal teams to collect, analyze, and interpret pertinent financial data.
• Support auditing activities by providing necessary financial information and participating in group and statutory audits.
• Ensure compliance with accounting regulations and professional standards at all times.
• Assist with budgeting and forecasting by aligning ledger processes accordingly.
• Record financial transactions regularly including accruals, deferrals, reclassifications, and interdepartmental entries; generate reports as needed.
• Perform detailed account analyses to verify correctness of journal entries and balances.
• Reconcile balance sheet accounts, prepare schedules, and quickly address discrepancies.
• Review and close intercompany balances through reconciliation efforts.
• Maintain thorough supporting documentation and accurate recordkeeping.
• Stay informed about changes in regulatory standards and best accounting practices.
• Contribute to the development and enhancement of accounting policies and procedures.

Knowledge and Expertise Required

• Comprehensive understanding of general ledger processes, journal entries, balance sheet reconciliations, and period-end closing activities.
• Proficiency in accounting standards including accruals, provisions, intercompany transactions, and familiarity with ERP systems and financial reporting tools.
• Awareness of financial reporting frameworks such as IFRS, US GAAP, and local compliance requirements.
• Insight into industry-specific accounting procedures like expense allocations and cost structure analysis.
• Understanding of financial KPIs related to profitability, cost management, and balance sheet metrics.
• Knowledge of chart of accounts, record-to-report processes, internal controls, and close timelines.

Leadership and Interpersonal Skills

• Demonstrates strong ownership and accountability for accuracy and timely completion of general ledger activities.
• Collaborates effectively with cross-functional internal teams including accounts payable, accounts receivable, and financial planning.
• Possesses strong analytical abilities to identify and resolve discrepancies within financial data and audit queries.
• Exhibits excellent communication skills when interacting with auditors and various departments.
• Maintains attention to detail, adaptability, and emotional intelligence to navigate pressures during financial close cycles.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related discipline is mandatory.
• 3 to 5 years of accounting experience, preferably within multinational organizations.
• Knowledge of US GAAP accounting standards is essential.